Constructivism

Constructivism is a learning theory found in psychology which explains how people might acquire knowledge and learn. It therefore has direct application to education. The theory suggests that humans construct knowledge and meaning from their experiences. Constructivism is not a specific pedagogy. Piaget's theory of Constructivist learning has had wide ranging impact on learning theories and teaching methods in education and is an underlying theme of many education reform movements. Research support for constructivist teaching techniques has been mixed, with some research supporting these techniques and other research contradicting those results.

Learning Theories.ComProvides an overview of the concept of Constructivism: that learning is an active, contextualized process of constructing knowledge rather than acquiring it. (retrieved Jan 19, 2011)

Constructivist Learning TheoryAlthough this site specifically discusses the meaning of constructivism for museums, it provides a very detailed explanation of Constructivist Learning Theory and the principles of learning. (retrieved Jan 19, 2011)

How does a constructivist approach differ from a traditional approach?

The Practice Implications of Constructivism Discusses the notion of Constructivism and its implications for teaching. Concludes that the most important contribution of constructivism may well be a focus on student-centered learning. (retrieved Jan 19, 2011)

How to design student-centered constructivist learning activities

Constructivist Learning DesignGives a detailed account of the development of Constructivist Learning and suggests a Constructivist Learning Design which emphasizes six important elements: Situation, Groupings, Bridge, Questions, Exhibit, and Reflections. (retrieved Jan 19, 2011)

Constructivism and the 5 E Model Science LessonThe 5 E model for designing science lessons is just one method of instruction that supports constructivist teaching/learning. Presented as a WebQuest this site helps teachers to develop a thorough understanding of Constructivism and its application to the classroom via the 5 E learning cycle. (retrieved Jan 19, 2011)

Student-centred learning: What does it mean for students and lecturers?Describes the notion of student-centred learning (SCL) and how there has been a paradigm shift away from teaching to an emphasis on learning. Gives an overview of different definitions of CSL and suggests some ways that CSL can be applied to teaching and assessment practices. (retrieved Jan 19, 2011)

A Case Study of ICT and School Improvement at Bendigo Senior Secondary College, Victoria, AustraliaA case study of an Australian school where change included the installation of an extensive ICT infrastructure, changing management practices and encouraging teachers to adopt an “active, constructivist and experiential” approach to teaching and learning.

Primary science and ICTThis paper presents a review of the impact of ICT in primary schools and a critical evaluation of ways in which ICT is currently being used to promote good science teaching. It considers the science and ICT children of today need to learn in order to enable them to become scientifically and computer-literate by the time they are 20.